When a small area of your intestine protrudes or pushes through the weakened area of the abdominal wall, it means you’re experiencing a hernia. Although it is not always painful, a hernia results in discomfort that becomes worse over time. Your doctor will have a number of treatment options to treat the hernia, including surgery. After evaluating your condition and conducting a thorough examination, the healthcare provider will know which procedure is most suitable for you.
It is natural to be worried about the treatment, especially if your condition requires a surgical procedure. One of the aspects people worry about is the time required for the procedure. So, how long does a hernia surgery take? Carry on reading this blog to find out.
Types of Hernia Surgery
There are two popular types of hernia surgery available, depending on your condition. These include:
Traditional Open Hernia Surgery: an invasive procedure that involves the surgeon making an incision on the skin close to the hernia and returning the hernia sac back to the correct position. After strengthening the barrier, the surgeon will stitch the original incision.
Laparoscopic Surgery: it is the least invasive hernia repair surgery available, with the surgeon making minor cuts to insert a small camera. By using the camera to view the area properly, the surgeon will inflate the area with a harmless gas and proceed with the treatment. While this may seem like the best option, it is not the right treatment for everyone. Your doctor will know if this is the right choice.
The surgical procedures help push the hernia back to its place, and both involve using anesthesia. Here are some factors that help determine which procedure is right for you:
- The size of the hernia
- How much damage hernia has caused
- The location of the hernia
- Preference
- Overall health
How Long is Hernia Surgery?
There is no definite time associated with hernia surgery. This is because the duration of the procedure depends on the size, location, and type of hernia, among other factors. In addition, the type of hernia surgery you undergo will also affect how long the treatment will take.
In most cases, a hernia surgery will last between 45 minutes and 2 hours. But do not expect to hop out of bed right after surgery; you will need time to recover. Plus, you’ll be under general anesthesia during the surgery, which means waiting to recover for a while after the surgery.
After laparoscopic surgery, most patients are allowed to leave after 2-3 hours. Your doctor will want to ensure that you’re responsive enough before discharging you. Moreover, they’ll make sure your pain is managed before you leave. Sometimes, patients are required to urinate or perform another bodily function before leaving.
In the case of an inpatient hernia surgery, which is usually open hernia surgery, you may have to stay in the hospital overnight. Nonetheless, it’s possible that your stay will be extended to two to three days to ensure your condition is stable.
What’s Next?
Many people wonder, “How long does a hernia surgery take?”
To answer, it takes less than an hour to complete. This includes the time you are taken into the operating room to the moment you enter the recovery area. However, many factors affect how long you stay.
At Gastroenterology, we offer a wide range of effective treatments for your gastrointestinal issues. Dial (281) 357 1977 to book an appointment with us. You can also drop by our clinic at 421 School St., Suite 110, Tomball, TX 77375.